Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives passed two key bills to protect New Mexicans' safety and privacy by restricting the disclosure of certain personal information.

Senate Bill 57, which passed 42-25, would protect the rights of medical professionals who provide reproductive care at public institutions, by exempting their personal information from the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA). This narrow IPRA exemption would help ensure the personal safety of providers and the privacy of their patients.

SB 57 is sponsored by House Majority Leader Reena Szczepanski (D-Santa Fe), Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth (D-Santa Fe) and Senator Cindy Nava (D-Bernalillo).

"Our medical providers who provide essential reproductive healthcare services should not live in fear of threats, harassment, or harm from out-of-touch extremists," said Leader Szczepanski. "As other states attack our fundamental rights and freedoms, New Mexico is stepping up to protect the personal safety of providers and maintain the privacy of patients at our public institutions."

Senate Bill 36, which passed 42-23 would prohibit state employees from disclosing sensitive personal information about New Mexicans to anyone outside of their agency. Protected information includes sexual orientation, gender identity, medical conditions, disabilities, immigration status, national origin, and religion.

The bill also specifically prohibits staff from disclosing personal information about an individual for the purposes of enforcing federal immigration law. These restrictions would not interfere with felony criminal proceedings.

"Senate Bill 36 makes clear that the personal, sensitive data that New Mexicans give to our state agencies in good trust, cannot be sold to anyone who wants it. We look out for our neighbors, no matter their religion, immigration status, gender identity, or any other label. We will not allow our state government to become a tool for discrimination," said House sponsor Rep. Cristina Parajón (D-Albuquerque).

Under SB 36, the New Mexico Attorney General, a district attorney, or the State Ethics Commission may take civil action against state employees who violate the rule. Additional sponsors of the bill include Rep. Pamelya Herndon (D-Albuquerque) and Senators Antoinette Sedillo Lopez (D-Albuquerque) and Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics (D-Cerrillos).

Both of these bills will now head to the Governor's desk to be signed into New Mexico law.

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.